When it comes to buying a pre-owned vehicle, seating capacity is a key consideration for families or anyone looking to transport more than the standard five passengers. Having a third-row seat can be a game-changer, offering the flexibility to accommodate up to eight passengers or additional cargo. Whether it's for carpools, family road trips, or just the occasional need for more space, a used car with third-row seating is a smart choice. This guide by the team at Boardman Mitsubishi in Boardman, Ohio, explores some of the best three-row options available on the used car market.
Toyota Highlander: The Ultimate Family SUV
With seating for up to eight people and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, the Toyota Highlander is the perfect choice for family road trips. A smooth ride, a spacious interior, and a range of advanced safety features mean the Highlander is consistently ranked high among its competitors in the midsize SUV market.
It boasts a decent amount of cargo space for an SUV of its size providing up to 84.3 cubic feet with all rear seats folded down. What's more, Toyotas are well known for their exceptional reliability and resale value, making a used Highlander an excellent investment in the long run. We recommend looking out for models equipped with the available V-6 engine for added power and towing capacity.
Honda Pilot: A Refined Option
The Honda Pilot is another sought-after option in the midsize SUV market with seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim. Despite its size, the SUV offers car-like handling for a smooth and comfortable ride. It also provides better fuel efficiency than its rivals. Inside, you can expect a well-designed interior, impressive cargo space (one of the largest in the midsize SUV market), and a versatile third row.
With decent handling and visibility, especially on mountain roads, it's the ideal choice for weekends away. It can also handle slippery surfaces well if you opt for all-wheel drive. We love the Pilot's various clever storage compartments, such as the underfloor compartment in the cargo area where you can stow the removable seat when you're not using it. Look for used models with advanced tech, such as Tri-Zone Climate Control to keep everyone cool and the Honda Sensing suite of technologies, which includes adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation.
Ford Explorer: The Classic SUV Choice
If you're looking for a used SUV with a rugged edge, the Ford Explorer is certainly worth considering. With ample cargo space and seating for up to seven people, an Explorer with third-row seating provides versatility for both daily driving and adventures. Its impressive grip and handling and strong towing capabilities of up to 5,600 pounds make it an excellent choice for weekend trips. We recommend looking for a used vehicle with the optional sliding second-row bucket seats to gain more access and room in the back rows.
The Ford Explorer comes with an easy-to-use infotainment system and excellent safety and technology features. You can find various trim levels and engine options to suit your needs, such as the available turbocharged engine that adds additional power and performance. We recommend looking for models with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite for extra safety features.
Hyundai SANTA FE: Compact and Capable
Hyundai's SANTA FE is an affordable used SUV with seats for up to six or seven. It offers a comfortable ride, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a quiet and well-designed cabin. Despite its size and third row, we recommend the SANTA FE for smaller families rather than large ones or those who only occasionally require extra seating. The limited legroom in the back makes the third row more comfortable for kids or short journeys.
No matter the trim level you choose, the SANTA FE comes with a range of standard features, such as a tilt or telescoping steering wheel, a 7-inch touch-screen display, dual front USB ports, and LED daytime running lights for added safety on the road. We recommend searching for a vehicle with the optional peppy V-6 engine for exceptional ride handling.
Chevrolet Traverse: Spacious and Comfortable
With one of the most spacious third-row seats in its class, the Chevrolet Traverse can comfortably accommodate adults, not just children. There are seats for up to eight people across three rows, and you can upgrade the second row to captain's chairs for additional comfort. If you're not using all the Chevrolet's seats, you can fold them down to gain an impressive 98.2 cubic feet of storage space.
All in all, the Chevrolet Traverse offers a roomy interior, a smooth and quiet ride, and a user-friendly infotainment system, which makes it ideal for long road trips. With its attractive pricing on the used market, it's a practical choice for those on a budget. If you're hoping for a Chevrolet with added power, look for used Traverse models with the available V-6 engine.
Kia Sorento: Versatility Redefined
The Kia Sorento is a compact SUV that punches above its weight class when it comes to seating. It boasts three rows of flexible seating to accommodate up to seven people. This is an ideal choice if you often have to ferry multiple family members or kids around. You can configure the seats in multiple ways, so you can maximize either passenger or cargo space. While upgrading to the available captain's chairs in the second row will limit the seating to six, each passenger gets more room to stretch out.
When using all three rows, the one-touch sliding second-row seats provide easy access to the third row with its 50/50-split folding and reclining seats. The Kia Sorento's smaller size makes it more maneuverable in city traffic, making it versatile in all driving conditions. The well-appointed interior, user-friendly technology, and strong warranty coverage add to its appeal. What's more, this versatile SUV is available with various powertrains, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Ready for a Test Drive?
An SUV with third-row seating can give you the flexibility to accommodate more passengers or cargo whenever and wherever you need. Whether you prefer the reliability of Toyota, the versatility of Honda, or the ruggedness of Ford, you can take your pick of various pre-loved cars with third-row seating at Boardman Mitsubishi in Ohio. Before you decide, remember to inspect the vehicle thoroughly, check its maintenance history, and take it for a test drive. Browse our current inventory online or visit our dealership in person to experience these exceptional midsize SUVs for yourself.
?Image by Matthew Lancaster is licensed with Unsplash License